The moment I first dipped my spoon into this Copycat Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup, I knew I had something special. There’s a comforting warmth in every velvety bite—a perfect blend of sharp cheddar and tender broccoli that tastes just like the beloved café classic. After countless attempts to find a soup recipe that’s both indulgent and easy enough for a weeknight, this one stole the show. What I love most is how it transforms simple ingredients into a rich, creamy delight without hours of simmering. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening or looking to impress guests with a homemade touch, this soup fits the bill. Let me guide you through making a batch that’s destined to become your new comfort food favorite!
Why choose Copycat Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe?
Creamy Comfort: This soup delivers a velvety texture that’s pure indulgence in every spoonful. Simple Ingredients: You’ll love how everyday pantry staples turn into gourmet flavor. Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights. Crowd-Pleaser: A classic taste that wins over family and guests alike. Homemade Goodness: Skip the takeout and savor a healthier, fresher alternative.
Copycat Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Unsalted Butter – melts smoothly to create a rich, creamy foundation essential for the soup’s velvety texture.
- Yellow Onion – finely chopped to add natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Carrots – diced small for subtle earthiness and a touch of natural sweetness.
- All-Purpose Flour – used to thicken the soup, giving it that signature creamy consistency.
- Chicken Broth – the savory liquid that blends all the flavors together perfectly; can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
For the Veggies & Cheese
- Broccoli Florets – tender yet slightly crisp, they provide the star fresh green element and nutrition.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – freshly grated for bold, cheesy richness that mirrors the Panera original.
- Half-and-Half – adds creamy smoothness without heaviness, balancing the soup beautifully.
For Seasoning & Finishing Touches
- Garlic Cloves – minced to boost aroma and depth without overpowering the delicate veggies.
- Salt and Black Pepper – adjusted to taste to enhance the natural flavors.
- Nutmeg – just a pinch to subtly layer warm, cozy notes that elevate the soup’s complexity.
This Copycat Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe combines simple, wholesome ingredients you likely have on hand, turning them into a luscious, comforting bowl you’ll cherish throughout the seasons.
How to Make Copycat Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup
- For the Soup Base:
- Heat Butter: Melt the unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering, then add chopped onion and carrots, sautéing until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Make Roux: Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for 2 minutes until it turns pale golden and thickens, creating a smooth, nutty base that will coat your spoon.
- Add Broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to prevent lumps, bringing mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5 minutes until it’s silky and slightly thickened.
- Stir Cream: Lower heat, pour in the half-and-half, stirring until well combined. Simmer gently for 3 minutes, creating a luxuriously creamy texture without boiling—keep it smooth and velvety.
- For the Veggies & Cheese:
- Prep Broccoli: Meanwhile, steam or blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Immediately shock in ice water to preserve vibrant color and texture.
- Combine Veggies: Drain broccoli, chop coarsely if desired, then stir into the creamy soup base. Let it warm through for 1–2 minutes to marry flavors and maintain those green pops.
- Melt Cheese: Reduce heat to low, gradually sprinkle in the sharp cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and silky. Ensure no grainy bits remain for that smooth café-quality finish.
- For Seasoning & Finishing Touches:
- Season Soup: Add minced garlic, a pinch of nutmeg, and salt and black pepper to taste. Stir, taste, and adjust seasoning until perfectly balanced and warmly spiced.
Optional: Top with extra shredded cheddar and serve with crusty bread.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Copycat Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Select bright green, firm florets for the best texture and flavor; blanch quickly to retain color and avoid mushiness.
- Avoid Overheating Cheese: Add sharp cheddar on low heat and stir gently to prevent graininess and ensure a smooth, creamy finish.
- Perfect Your Roux: Cook flour just until golden to eliminate raw flour taste while keeping it light enough to thicken the soup nicely.
- Slowly Whisk Broth: Gradual addition of chicken broth avoids lumps and creates a silky soup base, essential for that velvety texture.
- Adjust Seasonings Last: Salt, pepper, garlic, and nutmeg should be fine-tuned at the end to balance flavors without overpowering the delicate soup.
Make Ahead Options
These Copycat Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe preparations are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy homemade comfort with ease! You can prep the soup base—cooking the butter, onions, carrots, and adding the roux—up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Furthermore, blanch the broccoli florets ahead of time and refrigerate them; they’ll stay fresh for 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup base over low heat, stir in the half-and-half and cheese, add the broccoli, and season to your liking. You’ll have delicious, café-quality results with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Copycat Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup?
Elevate your dining experience with thoughtful pairings that enhance the cozy essence of this delightful soup.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or artisan loaf is perfect for dipping and soaking up every drop of that creamy goodness.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with tangy dressing adds freshness, complementing the rich, savory flavors of the soup for a balanced meal.
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Garlic Toast: Crunchy and buttery, these slices bring an irresistible crunch and aroma, mingling wonderfully with the velvety soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, provide a vibrant, caramelized contrast that brightens the plate.
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Apple Crisp: End your meal with a warm apple crisp, as the sweet and tart apples contrast beautifully with the savory soup’s richness.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine offers a delightful pairing, with its crisp acidity matching the soup’s creamy texture effortlessly.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing; the melty, gooey goodness enhances the cheesy notes of the soup while adding a comforting familiarity.
These pairings create a cozy ambiance, transforming a simple bowl of soup into a memorable meal that warms the heart.
Copycat Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists to enhance your homemade soup experience!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute half-and-half with coconut milk and use non-dairy cheese for a creamy, vegan-friendly version.
Coconut milk adds a delightful richness while keeping the flavor profile intact. You won’t miss the dairy at all! -
Extra Veggies: Add in diced potatoes or cauliflower for heartiness and added nutrients.
For texture, ensure to cut them into uniform pieces and simmer until tender, integrating them beautifully into the creamy base. -
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
Just a pinch can elevate the dish and create a cozy warmth that dances on your palate. -
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a fresh, aromatic twist.
Adding chopped herbs at the end infuses bright flavor, making each spoonful feel like an exclusive gourmet delight. -
Grains Boost: Add cooked rice or quinoa for a filling, wholesome touch.
This not only thickens the soup but also adds a chewy texture that complements every creamy bite. -
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for varied flavor profiles.
Mixing cheeses can result in a delightful harmony of sharpness and creaminess that keeps it exciting. -
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a splash of toasted sesame oil or top with roasted nuts.
This invites a new dimension of flavor and a crunchy texture, balancing the soup’s creaminess perfectly. -
Citrus Brightness: A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can brighten the flavors.
The acidity cuts through the richness, creating a well-rounded, satisfying finish you’ll love.
How to Store and Freeze Copycat Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Reheating: When reheating from the fridge or freezer, warm over low heat on the stovetop to maintain the soup’s creamy texture, stirring occasionally.
Storage Tips: Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing and storing to prevent condensation, which can dilute flavors in your Copycat Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup.
Copycat Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of broccoli is best for this soup?
Choose fresh, bright green broccoli florets that are firm to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots or wilting leaves to ensure the soup’s flavor and texture are top-notch.
How should I store leftover Copycat Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Always let the soup cool to room temperature before sealing to preserve its creamy texture and prevent condensation.
Can I freeze this soup, and if so, how long will it last?
Absolutely! Freeze the soup in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge then warm gently on the stove, stirring carefully to maintain its velvety consistency.
What if my soup turns grainy when adding cheese?
This happens if the heat is too high or the cheese is added too quickly. I recommend lowering the heat to very low before slowly stirring in shredded sharp cheddar bit by bit. This careful melting keeps your soup silky smooth and free of gritty bits.
Is this soup safe for pets or suitable for common food allergies?
This soup contains dairy and chicken broth (unless swapped), so it isn’t pet-safe or suitable for those with dairy allergies. For a vegan option, use vegetable broth and a plant-based cheese alternative—but be mindful this will alter flavor and texture.
Easy Copycat Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering, then add chopped onion and carrots, sautéing until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for 2 minutes until it turns pale golden and thickens.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to prevent lumps, bringing mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5 minutes until it’s silky and slightly thickened.
- Lower heat, pour in the half-and-half, stirring until well combined. Simmer gently for 3 minutes.
- Meanwhile, steam or blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Shock in ice water.
- Drain broccoli, chop coarsely if desired, then stir into the creamy soup base. Let it warm through for 1-2 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, gradually sprinkle in the sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and silky.
- Add minced garlic, a pinch of nutmeg, and salt and black pepper to taste. Stir and adjust seasoning.
